News Summary
Fort Mill residents are reeling from a disturbing animal cruelty case involving two women charged after over 100 animals were found in terrible conditions. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the community, with many questioning how such neglect was allowed to fester. As investigations continue, local animal control is working to find homes for the rescued animals, urging residents to report any signs of distress.
News Summary
Fort Mill residents are reeling from a disturbing animal cruelty case involving two women charged after over 100 animals were found in terrible conditions. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the community, with many questioning how such neglect was allowed to fester. As investigations continue, local animal control is working to find homes for the rescued animals, urging residents to report any signs of distress.
Shocking Animal Cruelty Case Unfolds in Fort Mill
Fort Mill has found itself in the midst of a troubling animal cruelty incident that has shocked residents and animal lovers alike. Two women, identified as Megan Kerr, aged 26, and Bianca Derboghosian, aged 34, have been arrested and face serious charges following the alarming discovery of over 100 animals living in horrendous conditions.
Disturbing Scene at 400 Unity Street
The saga began when the Fort Mill Police Department received several reports about dogs fighting in the backyard of a home located at 400 Unity Street. Witnesses spoke of a chaotic scene, with multiple dogs reportedly engaged in a brutal fight and one, tragically, attacking a small puppy. The situation escalated when officers arrived on the scene only to find what appeared to be a lifeless puppy lying motionless in the yard, an image that cemented the severity of the situation.
Conditions Unveiled
Upon closer inspection, officers reported that the remaining dogs were not just involved in fights; they were malnourished and living in deplorable conditions. It was a heartbreaking sight for those sworn to protect animals. In total, York County Animal Control took custody of an astonishing 103 animals from the property. This array included not only dogs and cats but also small pets like hamsters, as well as reptiles and spiders. Unfortunately, the rescue operation uncovered not just the living animals but some that were already dead, adding to the distress of the situation.
Community Outcry
Residents of the neighborhood could only stand by and watch in horror as the events unfolded. Many reported a consistently awful smell coming from the property, hinting at the grim realities behind closed doors. Some neighbors even claimed to have seen upwards of 15 to 19 dogs roaming in the backyard, adding to the chaos and noise that had prompted complaints to authorities.
A Troubling History
This wasn’t the first time the Fort Mill Police had responded to issues at this particular residence. Officers had been dispatched to the location nine times this year due to various complaints concerning noise and animal welfare. The history of the property includes a city-issued stop work order, which prohibited the homeowners from operating a pet boarding business without the necessary permits. This situation has raised many eyebrows and left the community questioning how such conditions were allowed to persist.
The Aftermath
The animal control director has stated that most of these rescued animals will be relocated to various rescue organizations, as the local shelter is currently overflowing. In an alarming note, within just one week, the shelter has taken in nearly 270 animals, and it is reaching out for donations and pet adoptions to help with the overwhelming influx of pets needing care. The local animal control is working tirelessly to ensure that animals received proper care and find loving homes.
Investigations Continue
As of now, the investigation into this heartbreaking incident remains active and ongoing. The community is left grappling with the emotional fallout, hoping for justice for the animals that suffered. It serves as a poignant reminder that vigilance and compassion for our furry friends is essential to ensure their safety and well-being.
In light of these events, residents are encouraged to report any signs of animal distress they might encounter. Together, communities can create a safer environment for all living creatures and prevent such shocking stories from becoming a reality ever again.
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Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: Two Women Charged with Animal Cruelty
- QC News: Traffic Pattern Changing for I-77
- WCCB Charlotte: Two Charged for Animal Cruelty
- Charlotte Observer: Food & Drink News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Cruelty
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
